Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed the immediate arrest of elders and all individuals involved in perpetuating female genital mutilation (FGM) across the country. The directive targets regions that have continued to engage in the outlawed practice, particularly during the festive season.
Murkomen said the government will intensify operations in areas notorious for FGM, including Marakwet, West Pokot, Samburu, Kisii, Migori, and parts of the Northeastern region. He emphasized that the government has activated security teams to monitor and curb the practice as the December holidays approach.
“I do not want to hear anything like FGM here in Marakwet come December. If such incidents occur, I will personally ensure those involved are arrested,” Murkomen warned.
The Interior CS made the remarks during Mazingira Day celebrations held in Embobut, Elgeyo Marakwet, where he also led residents in tree-planting activities. He condemned FGM as a harmful and outdated practice that has destroyed the lives of many young girls who are forced into early marriages after dropping out of school.
Murkomen reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering girls through education, saying the construction of more schools was aimed at giving all children an equal opportunity to learn. He directed chiefs and other local administrators to take full responsibility for enforcing the law and preventing FGM in their areas of jurisdiction.
“Chiefs must ensure no such practices occur in their regions. Anyone found engaging in FGM, including elders and women who perform the act, will face arrest and prosecution,” he stated firmly.
Beyond addressing FGM, the CS called on Kenyans to participate actively in environmental conservation efforts. He highlighted the importance of protecting forests, especially the Embobut Forest, and supporting the government’s initiative to plant 15 billion trees nationwide.
Murkomen noted that achieving the national tree-planting target would significantly boost forest cover and promote a sustainable environment for future generations. He emphasized that protecting the environment is a collective responsibility that contributes directly to the country’s health, stability, and economic prosperity.
The CS urged citizens to unite in ending harmful cultural practices while embracing national development and conservation goals, noting that both efforts are essential to securing a safer and more progressive Kenya.
